Gabriel Jesus has backed an Arsenal team-mate to become ‘one of the best in the world’ ahead of the crucial Premier League clash against Manchester United.
The Gunners will look to keep the pressure on title rivals Manchester City when they travel to Old Trafford to face struggling United on Sunday afternoon.
United are just eighth in the Premier League – closer in terms of points to the relegation zone than the top-flight leaders – after winning just one of their last seven league fixtures.
Arsenal, meanwhile, have amassed an impressive 83 points from 36 games as they challenge Man City for the title and look to win the Premier League for the first time in 20 years.
Their success has been built upon a superb defensive record – Mikel Arteta’s side have conceded just 28 goals this season, comfortably the least in the Premier League.
William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have formed a brilliant centre-back partnership and Arsenal striker Jesus believes the Frenchman has what it takes to become ‘one of the best’ defenders in the world.
Saliba has started every single one of the club’s Premier League games this season, having turned his Arsenal career around after some early struggles following a £27m move from Saint-Etienne in 2019.
‘It’s hard to play against him! I’ve never played against him in a match, only in training, but even then it’s hard because he’s so sharp and hard to beat,’ Jesus said of Saliba.
‘We are all working hard to improve and if he carries on doing that he can be one of the best, for sure. He’s very special.
‘Everyone knows how good he is, but not only him – he and Gabriel match up perfectly, and I think Gabi has helped him a lot.’
Asked if Saliba and Gabriel could emulate Arsenal greats like Sol Campbell and Tony Adams, Jesus added: ‘For sure.
‘The way they play together is so important, and defending is hard, especially away from home, against top teams. I think they’re still getting better and will carry on getting better.’
After facing Manchester United at Old Trafford, title-chasing Arsenal host Everton on the final day of the season.
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